Cognosante is proud to partner with the Department of Defense (DoD) to provide work experience through their SkillBridge program. In their final 180 days in the military, service members bring unique skills and shared values to their work as employees of Cognosante, including honor, integrity, service, and duty.
In honor of Military Appreciation Month, we spoke with our newest SkillBridge Fellow, Alicyn Coulter, to learn more about her background and role at Cognosante.
Alicyn, tell us about your military career and service to the nation.
I commissioned into the U.S. Army active duty as an Intelligence Officer in 2017 through ROTC. Over the next few years, I was stationed at military bases doing general security and worked in intelligence analysis at the U.S. Army’s Military Intelligence (MI) company. As an Executive Officer there, I managed systems and helped soldiers grow, develop, and apply new skills in the field. Later in my career, I was a Company Commander, supporting U.S. intelligence efforts for the National Security Agency (NSA).
What drew you to the SkillBridge program, and to Cognosante in particular?
With skills and experience in management and planning, I looked at SkillBridge opportunities in project management. I knew Cognosante is military friendly with a lot of support for military members, Veterans, and spouses—so I pursued opportunities here.
When I talked to Cognosante’s recruiter, she was warm, welcoming, and extremely helpful. The team I was introduced to during the interview process was also supportive and offered options for me to work in my interest area, which was great.
"I knew Cognosante is military friendly with a lot of support for military members, Veterans, and spouses—so I pursued opportunities here."
As a SkillBridge Fellow, how are you able to apply your military skills and experience to your civilian work at Cognosante?
Right now, I’m working on the VA ECFax project. I’m able to apply my skills and interests in leadership, management, planning, quality assurance/control, and general knowledge of the military as a subject matter expert.
On the people side, I’ve connected with many former military service members here at Cognosante, and everyone has been great about helping me network. I’m also looking forward to getting involved more in ConVERG, the company’s military community-focused Employee Resource Group, and am excited about all my opportunities here during my Fellowship.
Do you have any advice you’d like to give separating service members, or Veterans seeking civilian work?
Transitioning to civilian life can be overwhelming, and going with Cognosante was an easy choice to make. Many companies aren’t as proactive or welcoming, in my experience. My advice is use all available resources, including from SkillBridge. The more time you plan ahead, the less stressful it will be when separating.
If a military service member is interested in Cognosante, “Successful Interviewing Tips for Veterans” on Cognosante’s website is a great way to prepare for the interview process.
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Learn more about Cognosante’s commitment to military members, their families, and Veterans.
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